RPE generally performs better than HDPE in winter because it stays flexible in low temperatures and can handle movement in the surrounding soil without cracking. HDPE is strong and long-lasting, but it becomes stiffer as the temperature drops, which can make it more prone to stress points if the ground shifts or ice forms along the liner surface.
RPE’s woven-reinforced structure gives it higher tear resistance and allows it to bend rather than resist movement, making it well suited for freeze-thaw cycles. This flexibility helps maintain a consistent seal through winter and reduces the chance of small tears spreading into larger failures. For sites where winter stresses are a major concern, RPE is often the more forgiving material.
